If your dog has arthritis, chances are your veterinarian has recommended that your dog get regular exercise.
Why is exercise recommended for dogs with arthritis?
Though it might seem counterintuitive to have your dog move more when moving causes him pain, movement produces lubricating fluids in the joints that will make movement easier for him in the long run.
What types of exercise are good for dogs with arthritis?
Light exercise is best for dogs with arthritis. And what, you might ask, does “light exercise” mean? Anything that is gentle on the joints, like walking and swimming.
Swimming, in particular, is an excellent choice for dogs with arthritis as has the least amount of impact on their joints. If you dog wasn’t a swimmer previously, make sure to purchase a dog life jacket for her, as it will keep her safe as she grows accustomed to the water. And even if your dog grew up swimming, a dog life jacket is still a good idea as it will help support her weight in the water – making it even easier for her to get some exercise without causing additional strain on her joints.
How often should your arthritic dog exercise?
Your dog’s exercise routine should be regular amounts of light exercise. It doesn’t have to be much, a walk around the block will do! But the key is consistency. Only regular amounts of light exercise will help lubricate her joints and alleviate her pain. A good schedule might be: a walk around the block each night with two sessions of swimming per week. Or maybe alternative between swimming one day and walking the next. What ever works best for you and your dog!
But in the end, when caring for your arthritic dog, remember two things:
Movement is the lubricant and Consistency is key!